Wednesday, December 10, 2008

How to Break Up With Your Hairstylist

Ending a relationship with your hairdresser can be as messy as any other breakup—and potentially more frightening, considering those scissors near your throat. But trust me, I've cut hair for 20 years, and with a little tact and a lot of honesty and courage, saying "It's over" to your stylist shouldn't be tearful.

DON'T LIE...

The old "I'm moving away" excuse is the absolute worst. It's guaranteed that you will wind up standing in line behind him at the grocery store.

...BUT YOU CAN TAKE A BREAK.

Trying out another stylist lets you see how someone else would cut your hair. But hairdressers can easily spot other stylists' handiwork, so tell your usual cutter that you strayed. You could use this as an opportunity to point out a problem, like his three-week wait list. He should appreciate it—and the fact that you've returned.

ADMIT YOU MIGHT BE AT FAULT.

Saying "It's not you, it's me" is a breakup cliché, but it may well be true. If you've been telling your stylist to "do only a little trim," you may be stifling his creativity.

OFFER ONE LAST CHANCE.

Simply say flat out that you would like to change your look. If the reason you want someone new is more a personality conflict—incessant talking or habitual lateness—tell him directly, "I'm frustrated by [the offending behavior]." See how it goes. If you're not pleased, then make the break.

LAY IT ON THE LINE.

Once you've decided to leave, explain your reasons calmly, in person or in a note. Don't agonize too much about hurting his feelings; losing clients comes with the job. I have clients I've done for years, and to be honest, I feel stagnant with some of them. Like my mom: I've been doing her hair for so long, I don't know what the hell to do anymore. I often pretend she's someone else to keep things fresh.



SOURCE: Allure.com
(http://www.allure.com/magazine/2008/12/chris_mcmillan_hairstylist_breakup)
AUTHOR: Chris Mcmillan

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